ERLab Days

Insights into Research & Practice

Welcome to ERLab Days

We explore the intersection of research and practice within entrepreneurial ecosystems. Our must-go event brings together a diverse group of researchers, startups, and students to engage in a thoughtful examination of key themes in entrepreneurship.

ERLAB Days 2024

ERLab Days 2024 offered a comprehensive program that included keynote speeches, interactive workshops, and site visits. Over three days, participants had the opportunity to delve into current research, exchange ideas with peers, and observe practical applications in various entrepreneurial settings.

# Community

Examining the role of networks and collaboration in entrepreneurial success.

# Creativity

Investigating innovative approaches and problem-solving strategies.

# Communication

Enhancing the discourse within and between different facets of entrepreneurial ecosystems.

// what our guests say

We invite you to explore the highlights from ERLab Days 2024 and stay engaged with our ongoing initiatives. As we continue to bridge the gap between research and practice, we encourage you to join us in future explorations of these important topics.

About ERLAB Days

ERLab Days aim to foster a deeper understanding of entrepreneurial ecosystems by bringing together scholars, researchers, practitioners, and students in Heilbronn and Frankfurt (Oder). The event is designed to facilitate a meaningful exchange of ideas, combining rigorous academic research with practical insights from the field. Our mission is to bridge the gap between theory and practice, providing a platform for collaborative learning and innovation.

// Concept

# Arrival Day

We kick off the event with an engaging networking evening, offering participants the chance to connect in a relaxed setting. This initial gathering set the tone for the collaborative and open atmosphere that characterizes the entire event.

# Scientific Exchange Day

The second day featured thought-provoking keynote speeches and a panel discussion from leading experts in the field. The topics covered various aspects of entrepreneurship, with a focus on the roles of creativity, communication, and community. Interactive workshops provide an opportunity for deeper engagement with these themes, allowing participants to share their own research and receive feedback.

# Regional Exploration Day

On the final day, participants venture beyond the conference rooms to visit innovative sites such as the IceGuerilla factory in Beeskow and MotionLab.Berlin, a hub for Hardtech innovation. These excursions offer a practical perspective on how theoretical concepts are implemented in real-world settings, enhancing the overall understanding of the entrepreneurial landscape.

Throughout the program, participants are encouraged to ask questions, challenge assumptions, and think critically about the presented topics. The interactive format of the workshops and discussions allow for a rich exchange of ideas and foster a collaborative learning environment.

ERLab Days not only provide valuable academic insights but also highlighted practical applications and real-world case studies. This blend of theory and practice enriches the experience for all attendees, offering new perspectives and inspiring future research and entrepreneurial endeavors.

// Highlights 2024

# Speakers & Sessions

ERLab Days 2024 featured a lineup of keynote speakers, who provided deep insights into various aspects of entrepreneurship, particularly focusing on the critical roles of creativity, communication, and community within entrepreneurial ecosystems.

The event also included a panel discussion on the topics of creativity, communication and community and paper development workshops designed to foster dialogue between academia and practice.

Natalie Erdmann

Natalie Erdmann emphasized the importance of authenticity, creativity, and emotional engagement in building business value. She argued that true impact comes from educating and connecting with audiences on a deeper level, rather than relying on traditional marketing tactics. By fostering trust and sharing genuine stories, businesses can create meaningful connections that drive long-term success.

Prof. Dr. Guda van Noort

In her keynote, Prof. Guda Van Noort explored the impact of computational advertising, emphasizing the need to balance personalization with maintaining brand identity. She discussed how advanced algorithms enable highly targeted campaigns but warned that excessive personalization could erode consumer trust. Van Noort argued for the careful integration of computational methods to ensure that technology enhances brand authenticity and strengthens consumer relationships, rather than undermining them.

Prof. Dr. Matthias Menter

Prof. Dr. Matthias Menter’s keynote emphasized the dynamic nature of entrepreneurial ecosystems, advocating for models that account for their evolution over time. He highlighted the importance of adaptability and resilience, particularly in the face of economic crises, and discussed how digitalization and globalization are reshaping these ecosystems. Menter called for more empirical research to better understand the complex interactions that drive successful entrepreneurship in a changing global landscape.

Sid Koneti, Ph.D.

Sid is the Co-Founder of SkoneLabs, which aims to reduce food loss & waste by simplifying fresh produce’s quality monitoring and shelf life prediction through smart sensors and AI. He’s an experienced mentor, startup advisor, and consultant for leveraging technology to drive innovation. Sid also holds a Ph.D. focusing on nanotechnology and was all set to bring unique insights and perspectives to our discussion.

Prof. Dr. Albrecht Söllner

Prof. Dr. Albrecht Söllner, who holds the Chair of International Management at the European University Viadrina, is renowned for his innovative research spanning from the evolution of energy production and distribution to resource mobilization in startups and organizational responses to discontinuities. Prof. Söllner brings a rich perspective on entrepreneurship ecosystems, diversity, sustainability, community, and responsibility, making his insights invaluable to discussions on global business practices.

Prof. Dr. Orla Byrne

Professor Dr. Orla Byrne explored how failure impacts entrepreneurial identity and the broader entrepreneurial ecosystem. She emphasized that failure can profoundly reshape a founder’s self-perception, influencing their future actions and the dynamics within the ecosystem. Byrne highlighted the critical role of how entrepreneurs integrate failure into their identity, which can determine their long-term success and impact on the startup community.

# Site Visits

On the final day of ERLab Days 2024, participants had the unique opportunity to step outside the traditional conference setting and experience entrepreneurial ecosystems in action. The Exploration Day was designed to provide a practical understanding of how theoretical concepts are applied in real-world environments, highlighting the importance of hands-on experience in entrepreneurship.

Ice Guerilla Factory

The day began with a visit to the IceGuerilla factory in Beeskow, known for its innovative approach to ice cream production. Participants were given a guided tour of the facility, where they learned about the company’s journey, from its initial challenges to its current success in the ice cream market. The tour included a discussion on the company’s use of technology in production and distribution, as well as insights into the importance of resilience and adaptability in entrepreneurship. Attendees also had the chance to taste some of the unique ice cream flavors, making the experience both educational and enjoyable.

MotionLab.Berlin

Following the IceGuerilla tour, the group traveled to Berlin’s vibrant Kreuzberg district to visit MotionLab.Berlin, a leading Hardtech Innovation Center. This visit provided an in-depth look at a cutting-edge startup ecosystem focused on hardware innovation. Participants explored the facility’s state-of-the-art prototyping labs and maker spaces, witnessing firsthand how startups develop and test new products. The visit included a presentation from resident entrepreneurs, who shared their experiences and challenges in bringing hardware solutions to market.

The exploration of MotionLab.Berlin also highlighted the collaborative nature of the innovation hub. This environment of shared resources and knowledge was a key takeaway for participants, emphasizing the value of community in fostering entrepreneurial success.

Kante

Freischwimmer

Due to an unexpected development, our planned venue, Kante, filed for insolvency, leaving us without a location for our scheduled dinner. In response, we quickly organized a brief „Fuck-up Talk“ to address the situation and embrace the challenges that come with entrepreneurial ventures. Fortunately, we were able to pivot and spontaneously relocate to Freischwimmer, a charming restaurant located on the banks of the Landwehr Canal in Berlin. The setting provided the perfect backdrop for reflecting on the day’s experiences and engaging in meaningful conversations, making it a memorable conclusion to our Exploration Day.

Genuss.Werk.Stadt

Genuss.Werk.Stadt in Beeskow provided a delightful buffet and a Burger Van experience on our Arrival Day. On Exploration Day, Genuss.Werk.Stadt catered lunch, offering a selection of regional dishes such as asparagus, schnitzel, and fish. The restaurant is known for its fresh, local ingredients and the careful preparation of traditional dishes.

Blok O

On the Scientific Day of the ERLab Days 2024, we spent both lunch and dinner at Blok O in Frankfurt (Oder). Blok O provided the perfect setting to unwind and reflect on the day’s intense discussions and workshops. We enjoyed a delicious selection of dishes in a relaxed atmosphere, accompanied by live music that added to the ambiance. In the evening, a DJ set the mood, creating a lively conclusion to the day. Blok O belongs to St. Oberholz, Berlin, which was the first Co-Working Space in Germany. It was the ideal place to network and exchange scientific insights gained throughout the day in a casual setting.

Stay Connected

We invite you to stay connected with ERLab and join us in our future events and initiatives. By participating, you become part of a vibrant community dedicated to advancing the field of entrepreneurship. Whether you are a researcher, entrepreneur, or student, there are many ways to get involved and contribute to the collective knowledge and innovation within our ecosystem.

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